Question: What can I do to prevent my baby from getting GBS disease?
Answer: Intravenous antibiotics (antibiotics given through IV) are recommended during delivery to reduce the chance of you baby becoming sick.
Question: Do I have to take antibiotics or is there a natural alternative?
Answer: It is your choice if you want to take antibiotics. There are certain herbal methods that you can take 2-3 weeks before delivery that a midwife or homeopathic physician can provide for you.
Question: Is Group B Strep related to strep throat?
Answer: No, the two are not related.
Question: Can a woman who tests positive take oral antibiotics before delivery?
Answer: No, taking oral antibiotics is not effective when dealing with GBS.
Question: Are antibiotics safe for the baby?
Answer: Penicillin is most commonly used and is safe during pregnancy in non-allergic patients. There are substitute drugs for those who are allergic to penicillin but they could still experience an allergic reaction. It is best to discuss the pros and cons with your physician.
Reprinted with permission from American Pregnancy Association
